The City of Philadelphia has rescued the cash strapped Rhythm & Blues Foundation, allowing the organization to revive it's Pioneer Awards (for soul legends), coming this June to the city of brotherly love.

Philadelphia, the state of Pennsylvania, and business leaders have provided enough financial incentive for the R&B Foundation to vacate the big apple, New York City, and move to Philly town.

We last heard from the Pioneer Awards in 2003. This year's showcase will be held during black music month, on June 29th.

Patti Labelle and Smokey Robinson will host the ceremony. Chubby Checker, Bettye LaVette, Barbara Mason, The Delfonics, and producer Thom Bell will receive honors.

At this year's Philadelphia ceremony, Motown founder Berry Gordy will receive a lifetime achievement award. Otis Redding will receive a posthumous Legacy Tribute Award.

For more information about this organization's great charitable work, visit the Rhythm and Blues Foundation.

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